The Essential Guide to Green Card Renewal Biometrics: Everything You Need to Know
If you are a non-US citizen and a green card holder, you must renew your card every ten years. However, the process of renewing your green card isn’t a simple process. Recent changes to the US immigration policy now require applicants to undergo biometric screening during the green card renewal process. In this article, we will discuss what biometrics are, why they are necessary and everything you need to know about the green card renewal process.
What are Biometrics?
Biometrics refer to the use of technologies that measure and analyze human physical and behavioral characteristics. Biometric screening is necessary as it helps to identity-proof individuals during the application process. Biometric information can include fingerprints, facial recognition, iris scans, and voice recognition. These characteristics are unique to an individual, making biometrics an efficient method of identity verification. Biometrics can help prevent identity fraud, an issue that has been rampant in the US over the past decades.
What is Green Card Renewal Biometrics?
Green Card Renewal biometrics is the process of capturing biometric information during the application process for green card renewal. The capture of biometric data is a new requirement for green card holders that the US Citizenship and Immigration services (USCIS) have implemented recently. Applicants will be required to provide their biometric information during green card renewal biometrics, such as fingerprints, photographs, and signature. This is in addition to the background and criminal checks that typically accompany the renewal process.
Why are Biometrics Required?
As mentioned earlier, biometrics are necessary for identity-proofing individuals. The use of biometric technology is in response to the growing prevalence of identity fraud, which threatens national security and public safety. Biometric technology offers an accurate method of identity verification. The technology uses unique physical and behavioral characteristics that are unique to each individual. The digital capture of biometric information ensures that the identity is matched accurately, preventing fraudulent activities such as identity theft.
How is Biometric Information Captured?
The capture of biometric information is done at an Application Support Center. Biometric data is collected during a specific appointment and is a quick and straightforward process. At the center, immigration officers will take the applicant’s fingerscans, photograph and signature. Fingerprinting is the primary method of biometric data collection, and all ten fingerprints will be scanned. The data is then stored on USCIS’s database for identity verification and record-keeping purposes.
Important Things to Know before Biometric Screening
Before attending the biometric appointment, you should be aware of the following important things:
- You must bring the correct documents with you to the Application Support Center
- Ensure you arrive on time for your appointment
- Wear comfortable and appropriate clothing
- Electronic devices such as phones and laptops are not allowed in the center
- Avoid bringing young children unless they have an appointment too
Conclusion
The green card renewal process can be confusing, especially with the recent changes in policy. Biometric screening is an essential part of the green card renewal process, and you must adhere to the process’s requirements to avoid delays or denial of your renewal application. Biometric screening offers an efficient and secure method of identity verification and is necessary to ensure public safety and national security.
Always remember to follow USCIS guidelines and deadlines for submitting your renewal application and attending biometric appointments. With proper preparation and understanding, you can navigate the process smoothly and renew your green card without any hassles.
